Subclass 190 State Nominated Visa Guide

What the subclass 190 visa is

The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) is a permanent visa for invited skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government. It is points-tested, and nomination is part of how applicants become eligible to be invited.

This guide explains the framework at a high level. It is general information, not immigration advice. The criteria are detailed and can change, so confirm the current rules on the official Department of Home Affairs source — and on the relevant state or territory source — before relying on anything here.

The role of state or territory nomination

For the subclass 190, an Australian state or territory must nominate you. Each state and territory runs its own nomination program, with its own occupation lists, criteria, and processes, which can change and may open and close during the year.

Nomination also contributes points under the points test for this visa. Because each program is set by its own government, this guide does not list state occupations or criteria — check the relevant state or territory government source as well as the Department of Home Affairs.

• An Australian state or territory must nominate you
• Each state/territory runs its own program, lists, and criteria
• State occupation lists change — verify on the relevant official source

Points, EOI, and eligibility

You submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and, for many state programs, also apply to the state or territory for nomination. Points are awarded for factors such as age, English, skilled employment, qualifications, and the state or territory nomination itself.

There is a published minimum number of points to be eligible to be invited, but the score at which invitations are issued can be higher and varies. Because these settings are determined by the Department of Home Affairs and the states, this guide does not state specific point totals or cut-offs. Use the official points calculator and check current requirements on the official sources.

• Submit an EOI in SkillSelect and seek state/territory nomination
• Nomination adds points under this visa's points test
• Exact points and cut-offs — verify on the official source

Commitment to the nominating state

States and territories nominate applicants who intend to live and work in their jurisdiction. As a general expectation, subclass 190 holders are asked to live and work in the nominating state or territory, commonly for the first two years after the visa is granted.

The exact commitment and how it is expressed are set by each nominating state or territory and by the Department of Home Affairs, so confirm what applies to you on the official sources rather than relying on a general description.

Where to verify the current rules

The Department of Home Affairs is the authoritative source for the subclass 190 points test, eligibility, fees, and application process, and each state or territory government is authoritative for its own nomination program.

Studying in Australia does not by itself lead to a subclass 190 visa; meeting the criteria at the time you apply is what matters, and no study path or visa can guarantee residence. Before you act, read the current information on immi.homeaffairs.gov.au and the relevant state or territory source, and verify every detail. This guide is general information only and is not immigration advice.